Opera House event features 'live art'

An art installation by the Amarant Design Collective entitled "Light" features some materials that have been repurposed from the previous installation by the same group at the Howell Opera House, a piece called "Red."(Photo: Gillis Benedict/Livingston Daily)

Patrons can watch – and bid on – art made right in front of their eyes during Opera Art Live, a Livingston Arts Council fundraiser set for 6 p.m. Saturday at the Howell Opera House.

Michigan artists will paint, sculpt and mold items on the spot for the event's silent auction. Other items to be auctioned include gift certificates from the Dearborn Glass Academy and Bikram Yoga of Brighton, among other local and regional businesses.

Those attending can also view the art display "Light" presented by Amarant Design Collective. The one-of-a-kind exhibit uses a collage of wooden window frames gathered around a circle of light inside the Opera House and is deigned to evoke feelings and emotions among viewers while playing off the building's historic architecture.

The event also features hors d'oeuvres by Gus's Carry-Out, beverages and a cash bar provided by Roak Brewery of Royal Oak, and Main Street Winery of Howell.

Silent bid winners will be announced at 9:30 p.m. and the evening will conclude with an afterglow with the artists.

Events proceeds will be used to maintain the Opera House, expand its programming and continue renovating the historic building.

Tickets to the adult-only event are $12 online at http://howelloperahouse.com/event/live-art-competition/. Tickets will be $15 per person at the door. Additional information is available by calling 517-540-0065. The Opera House is at 23 W Grand River Ave. in downtown Howell.